Managing Re-entry Home: Introduction to the W-Curve model

In the blog last week, we reviewed the final step in the U-Curve adaptation sequence known as the mastery phase. This week, we will focus on the W-Curve model of cross-cultural adaptation as developed by Gullahorn and Gullahorn. After this, we will explore a brief overview of the topics that will be covered in this series.

The W-Curve adaptation model

The U-Curve model, originally developed by Lysgaard in 1955, was based on his research into the ups and downs experienced by those who rather suddenly immersed themselves in an unfamiliar cultural context, and then remained for an extended period.

Then, in 1963, Gullahorn and Gullahorn extended the original concept by positing what they called the W-Curve. They conceptualised their model as having two connected U periods, thus producing the now immediately recognisable W image. Put simply, this was achieved by linking the initial adaptation process with consequential exposure to culture shock with potential reverse shock when subsequently attempting to readapt to the home context.

Moreover, as identified in relation to the U-Curve phases, during any reverse shock, fluctuations in emotions experienced by individuals will vary significantly from just being occasional mild annoyance or disappointments to profoundly disturbing experiences. Indeed, for some returning sojourners having to once again work through the same or similar adjustment phases, but now in the home context, can be particularly disorientating as it is often so completely unplanned and unexpected.

Topics covered in this series

We will initially define the meaning of the term reverse or re-entry shock when returning to the home cultural context. After this, we shall critically review several factors that can influence both possible exposure to reverse shock and the intensity of any experience.

Next, we will first examine an overview of the re-entry experience based on books by Craig Storti and Robin Pascoe. Following this, we shall consider the eight most frequently reported re-entry challenges by returning sojourners after extended periods of living overseas.

Then, we shall examine the key phases of the process when attempting to re-integrate in the home context, along with some practical strategies designed to minimise the prospect of experiencing reverse culture shock.

Finally, we shall evaluate the extent to which re-entry is influenced by whether the sojourn is within or between cultural clusters and the extent of the contrast in cultural value orientations.

In conclusion, it is important for the reader to note that many variations of the W-Curve model have been published that employ distinctly different vocabulary when listing the re-entry phases. The concepts used in this blog more accurately reflect my personal experience and research of the repatriation process following extended periods of living overseas in several distinctly different cultural contexts.

Reference

Gullahorn, J. T., & Gullahorn, J. E. (1963). An extension of the U-curve hypothesis. Journal of Social Issues, 19(3), 33–47. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1540-4560.1963.tb00447.x